Makita LS1019L Miter Saw Review – Should You Invest?

Today, we’re diving into the Makita LS1019L, a 10″ Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw that promises to revolutionize the way you approach woodworking. Whether you’re a beginner dabbling in DIY or a seasoned craftsman, the choice of miter saw can make or break your project. In this review, we’ll explore every nook and cranny of this power tool, evaluating its features, performance, and whether it truly lives up to the hype. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get into the details!

Overview of the Makita LS1019L Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Imagine a miter saw that not only promises precision but also brings a touch of innovation to your woodworking projects. That’s the Makita LS1019L for you – a 10″ Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw designed to elevate your DIY experience. When you unbox this marvel, you’re greeted with a blade, a dust bag, vertical clamp, wrenches, and a triangle – everything you need to jumpstart your cutting tasks.

What sets this saw apart in its league? Its unique 2-Steel Rail Sliding System allows for a compact design, enabling operation even in tight spaces, a feature not commonly seen in similar tools. The direct drive motor ensures smooth and reliable performance, a critical factor when precision matters.

Pros and Cons: The Makita LS1019L at a Glance

• Pros:
  • Impressive cutting capacity for its size
  • Convenient front knob for bevel adjustments
  • Innovative rail system ideal for confined spaces
  • Smooth and consistent power delivery
  • Effective dust management system
• Cons:
  • Higher price point compared to some rivals
  • The fence system is non-sliding, limiting support for certain cuts
  • Potential alignment issues with the blade and guide
  • Some packaging concerns noted
  • Weight might be a factor for portability

Next, let’s dive deeper into what makes the Makita LS1019L a tool worth considering for your next project.

Features and Benefits of the Makita LS1019L Miter Saw

Unique Rail System: A Space Saver’s Dream

Have you ever found yourself cramped in a small workshop, struggling to make room for a bulky miter saw? Well, Makita’s unique 2-Steel Rail Sliding System turns that problem on its head. It’s a real game-changer, allowing you to work in tight spaces without sacrificing functionality. The rails are mounted on the side, not the back, meaning you can snug this sliding miter saw right up against a wall. This feature alone makes it a standout choice for home workshops where space is at a premium.

Front Knob Bevel Adjustments: Simplicity Meets Precision

Gone are the days of fumbling behind the saw to adjust the bevel. With a conveniently located knob at the front, adjusting the bevel to the left and right is a breeze, even for beginners. This means less time adjusting and more time cutting. Plus, the bevel lock mechanism ensures your settings stay put, cut after cut. As a 20-year DIYer, I can tell you, this level of simplicity and precision is not something you see every day.

Cutting Capacity: Size Does Matter

When we talk about miter saws, size and capacity are often the deal-breakers. This model, despite being a 10″ saw, offers the cutting capacity of some 12″ saws. It handles 6-5/8” nested crown molding and 5-1/4” vertically oriented baseboards with ease. For a beginner, this means tackling larger projects without needing a bulkier saw. It’s like having a compact car with the engine of a truck – surprising yet incredibly efficient.

The Powerhouse: Smooth and Reliable

The 15 Amp motor with 3,200 RPM ensures this saw doesn’t just talk the talk but walks the walk. The direct drive motor means no belts to mess with, translating to smoother, more reliable cuts. As someone who’s dealt with the frustration of belt-driven saws, I can vouch for the difference this makes. Whether it’s a simple trim or a complex crosscut, the power and smoothness of this motor make each cut a satisfying experience.

Dust Extraction: Keeping It Clean

Any DIYer will tell you, dust is the bane of woodworking. Makita seems to have taken this to heart with an effective dust management system. Hook up a bag or a dust collection system to the dust collection ports, and you’ll see a significant reduction in mess. This feature might not seem glamorous, but trust me, it’s a lifesaver, especially when working indoors.

Soft Start and Electric Brake: Enhancing Control and Safety

Smooth Beginnings with Soft Start

The soft start feature in this saw is a subtle yet impactful addition. It’s all about control – when you power up the saw, it gradually reaches its full speed. This not only reduces the risk of an abrupt start but also extends the motor’s life by easing the initial load. For a DIYer, it translates to a more manageable and less intimidating start, especially for those new to power tools.

Stopping with Confidence: Electric Brake

Safety is paramount, and the electric brake feature is a testament to this. Once you release the trigger, the blade stops quickly, reducing the downtime between cuts and enhancing safety. This feature is particularly beneficial when making repetitive cuts, ensuring a smoother workflow and reducing the risk of accidents. It’s these thoughtful features that elevate the user experience, providing peace of mind and efficiency in your woodworking projects.

Navigating the Shortcomings of the Makita LS1019L 10″ Miter Saw

Alright, let’s talk turkey. As much as I admire this saw, it’s not without its quirks. After all, no tool is perfect, and as someone who’s been in the DIY trenches for a couple of decades, I’ve learned to spot the little things that can be deal-breakers for some.

The Fence System: Room for Improvement

First up, the fence system. It doesn’t slide, which I found a bit limiting, especially when tackling intricate bevel cuts. You can remove one fence to make do, but it’s not the ideal solution. I found myself wishing for a bit more flexibility here – something to give that extra support on both sides.

Weight: Portability vs. Stability

While the weight (nearly 60 lbs.) adds to the stability and sturdiness, it’s not the friendliest when it comes to portability. If you’re planning to move it around often, you might find it a bit cumbersome. It’s a classic trade-off situation – stability for portability.

Alignment Issues: A Rare but Notable Concern

I’ve heard some chatter about alignment issues with the blade and guide. Personally, I didn’t encounter this problem, but it’s worth mentioning. If you’re unlucky, you might need to tinker a bit or even reach out to Makita for servicing, which, thankfully, they’re pretty good about.

Price Point: Consider Your Budget

And then there’s the price. It’s a bit steep compared to other 10″ saws, but you’re paying for quality and unique features. Just be sure it aligns with your budget and needs.

Packaging: Sometimes It’s the Small Things

Lastly, a minor note on packaging – it’s been an issue for some. Though it doesn’t affect the tool’s performance, a damaged box can be a downer, especially if you’re gifting it.

Wrapping It Up

In the grand scheme of things, these drawbacks are relatively minor, especially considering the saw’s overall performance and features. But it’s always good to go in with eyes wide open, knowing exactly what you’re signing up for.

Bringing It All Together: Is This Saw Right for You?

In the world of DIY and home improvement, the right tool can make all the difference. The Makita LS1019L addresses a crucial problem: the need for a versatile, space-efficient, and precision-focused dual-bevel sliding miter saw. For those who battle with limited workshop space, its compact design and innovative rail system are a godsend. The user-friendly features, like the front knob for bevel adjustments and the powerful motor, make it a fantastic choice for both beginners and seasoned DIYers looking to upgrade their woodworking game.

However, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. If you’re on a tight budget or need a saw that’s ultra-portable for frequent site changes, this might not be the saw for you. It’s more of a stationary workshop hero than a nomadic tool.

For those who see its value and are ready to elevate their woodworking projects, the Makita LS1019L is a good saw and definitely worth checking out. It’s a robust, reliable tool that promises to deliver on its precision and power. So, if you’re ready to take your projects to the next level, click below to check out this product and see what a difference it can make in your workshop!

FAQs

What are some alternatives to the Makita LS1019L?

If the Makita LS1019L isn’t quite what you’re looking for, there are several worthy alternatives to consider:

1. DeWalt DWS713: An affordable option, this 10″ Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw is great for beginners or those on a budget.
2. Bosch CM10GD: A 10″ Dual-Bevel Glide Miter Saw that stands out for its smooth cutting motion and space-saving design.
3. Festool Kapex KS 120: This is a top-of-the-line 12″ sliding compound miter saw. It comes in at a higher price point for  

Each of these saws offers a unique set of features and capabilities, so it’s worth exploring them to find the one that best suits your specific needs and budget.

Is the Makita LS1019L Discontinued?

There are rumors flowing around the interwebs that the Makita LS1019L has been discontinued. I found nothing to substantiate these rumors. Makita’s own website continues to offer the LS1019L, along with several other online retailers.